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Ukraine’s Unexpected Military Operation in Russia’s Kursk Region
Explore the surprising details of Ukraine’s military operation in Russia’s Kursk region. This unexpected move raises questions about strategy and international relations, shedding light on the evolving dynamics of the ongoing conflict.
Ukraine’s Bold Incursion into Russia’s Kursk Region
Over two weeks into Ukraine’s unexpected military operation in the Russian region of Kursk, Ukrainian forces continue to advance without signs of slowing down. The incursion, which began on August 6, took not only Moscow by surprise but also caught Western allies and military analysts off guard.
According to experts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a U.S.-based think tank, operational security has played a crucial role in the success of this offensive. Karolina Hird, the ISW’s deputy team lead for Russia, noted, “Ukraine appears to have learned valuable lessons from its planning of the 2023 counteroffensive last year. There was excessive messaging surrounding that operation, which allowed both the West and Russia to predict its direction and timing.”
Hird emphasizes that the visible vulnerability of Russia’s borders could significantly alter public sentiment within Russia regarding the ongoing conflict. She explains, “There are numerous nuances that may seem fresh at the moment, but I believe they will foster discontent in the long run.” This stark realization that the Russian border is not as secure as previously thought may resonate with ordinary Russians, particularly those who had been largely indifferent to the war until now.
Kyiv asserts that its forces have successfully captured over a thousand square kilometers in the Kursk region, outpacing Russia’s territorial gains in Ukraine over the past eight months. However, it is noteworthy that the term “war” remains officially prohibited in the border region, echoing the restrictions imposed throughout the rest of Russia.
- Key Points:
- Ukraine’s military operation in Kursk began on August 6.
- Operational security has been critical for Ukraine’s success.
- Public sentiment in Russia may shift as borders are breached.
- Kyiv claims over a thousand square kilometers have been seized.
- The term “war” is banned in the Kursk region and throughout Russia.